Jones named CHL’s top prospect

The Portland Winterhawks defenseman was named the CHL’s Jack Link’s Top Prospect of the Year. The Plano, TX product had an impressive first season in the WHL, posting 14 goals and 56 points in 61 games as well as a plus-46 rating en route to capturing Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy as the WHL’s Rookie of the Year.

The 18-year-old has been first in Future Considerations’ 2013 NHL Draft ranking since January, eclipsing Nathan MacKinnon in the same month he helped Team USA capture gold at the World Junior Championship.

Jones beat out fellow draft eligibles Jonathan Drouin of the Halifax Mooseheads, and Darnell Nurse of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds to capture the honor.